intern7

LAX and SFO are running out of runway space. Building the high-speed rail is cheaper than buying up enough land in LA & SF for more runways.

Eventually we'll probably see airports used mostly for international and long-distance travel, with in-state travel shifting more toward rail.

Unless you can find a way to buy up the whole neighborhood of Playa del Rey for a new runway?

Thank you for this context! I think I knew & forgot about that. Much appreciated. I'm not sure I believe in the merits of spending 10% on things that aren't HSR, but I guess we're 13 years past that debate...

Is there any way to speed this up, or is it going to be "in progress" forever? I know politicians care about CAHSR only as a way to keep construction workers employed until retirement, but some of us want to ride the thing before we die. At least finish Phase 1 and let the Sacramento extension languish.

It's not different, but Meg can't do anything. The politicians are in charge way more than CAHSR staff.

Huh? Do you mean moving from single-track to double-track?